CHARLOTTE, N.C. — For working parents, child care is crucial going forward, whether children are learning in-person or remotely.
Now, the YMCA is making efforts to expand child care outside of Charlotte to reach more families. Due to the growing need for this type of care, the program is expanding to Lincoln County, Iredell-Statesville Schools and Mooresville Graded.
Twelve branches of the YMCA will be offering a full-day Back to School program. This will allow parents more flexibility while at work.
[ SPECIAL SECTION: Return to Learning ]
Executive Director of Youth Development Adrianne Hobbs said the program will operate during normal business hours from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Students will be able to complete their virtual learning school work, take part in other enrichment programs, social-emotional activities and physical education.
[ COUNTY-BY-COUNTY: Plans for returning to school this fall ]
Channel 9 learned the program is designed to keep students in groups so they can social distance from other children. Reporter Gina Esposito also asked how they plan to align their program with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.
“We are meeting frequently with our partners at CMS to make sure we have an understanding of what their expectations are, what learning platforms they’re using so our staff can be aware and help students from CMS as they come to our program as well,” Hobbs said.
The program is open to children preschool through 12th grade.
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There is a cost, which varies and financial assistance is available. There has already been a lot of interest. Several locations already have a waitlist.
Officials said 800 students are enrolled in their full-day back to school program across the Charlotte area and most, if not all 12 locations have a wait list.
For the school districts that are outside of CMS, the YMCA will be holding the program at the individual schools.